Best Friends by Sheri Calming Donut Bed
Deep-dish round bed with raised edges that mimic being held. Faux fur provides warmth and security for anxious dogs.
Chow Chow at a Glance
Size
medium
Weight
45-70 lbs
Energy
low
Coat
thick rough double coat
Common Health Concerns
Why Dog Beds Matter for Your Chow Chow
I've spent years working with Chow Chow dogs -- first at the clinic in Portland, then through the shelter, and now testing products with my own two dogs at home. The Chow Chow is dignified and serious, with a moderate build at 45-70 lbs and laid-back temperament. Picking the wrong dog bed for this breed means wasted money and a frustrated dog (I've seen it happen more times than I can count). Here's what I've learned actually works.
Because Chow Chow dogs are prone to hip dysplasia, the right bed isn't a luxury -- it's a health investment. I learned this with Benny (my 9-year-old lab/pit mix with hip dysplasia). Orthopedic support during rest reduces pressure on vulnerable joints and can slow the progression of degenerative conditions. A bed that's too thin or too small forces their 45-70 lbs body onto hard surfaces, and that compounds joint stress over time.
Medium-Breed Sizing for Chow Chow (45-70 lbs)
Medium dogs need a 36-inch bed minimum. Look for beds with removable, washable covers and enough padding to support their weight without bottoming out.
The Chow Chow at 45-70 lbs sits in the versatile medium range, which gives you the widest selection. The key is matching to your specific dog's build -- a muscular, stocky Chow Chow has different needs than a leaner one, even at the same weight. When in doubt, I size up rather than down.
Matching Dog Beds to Your Chow Chow's Low-Energy Lifestyle
Low-energy dogs spend more time resting, so invest in quality orthopedic support. They may prefer calming donut-style beds.
Lower-energy breeds like the Chow Chow spend more time resting than playing, which shifts your priorities. Comfort and quality become more important than extreme durability. That said, "low energy" doesn't mean "no energy" -- your Chow Chow still has active moments and deserves products that are well-made and safe.
Health Concerns That Affect Dog Bed Choice
The Chow Chow is predisposed to certain health conditions that should directly influence your dog beds choices. I saw these conditions constantly during my years at the clinic, and shopping with them in mind is one of the most impactful things you can do as an owner.
Hip Dysplasia:
Look for orthopedic beds with high-density memory foam that actually supports the hips and joints (not the thin "orthopedic" marketing foam that bottoms out in a month). I invested in a proper orthopedic bed for Benny when his hips started getting stiff, and the difference in his morning mobility was noticeable within weeks.
Bloat:
Bloat-prone breeds need careful attention to meal timing and post-meal activity. Factor this into your daily routine.
What to Look For: A Chow Chow Buyer's Checklist
When I'm comparing dog beds for a Chow Chow, these are the factors I weigh most heavily -- ranked by importance for this breed:
Orthopedic Support
I evaluate this factor specifically for Chow Chow dogs, accounting for their medium size, low energy level, and thick rough double coat.
Size Appropriateness
The Chow Chow at 45-70 lbs needs products sized for their medium frame. I only recommend options available in the correct size range -- "close enough" doesn't cut it.
Washability
Practicality matters more than most people think. Double-coated breeds shed heavily, and easy-wash products will save your sanity. I prioritize machine-washable options.
Durability
The Chow Chow is gentle enough that extreme durability isn't the top priority, but quality construction still matters for longevity and safety.
Temperature Regulation
I evaluate this factor specifically for Chow Chow dogs, accounting for their medium size, low energy level, and thick rough double coat.
Sarah's Tips for Chow Chow Owners
Account for shedding.
The Chow Chow's thick rough double coat sheds seasonally (and usually year-round -- Maple's fur is on everything I own). Any dog bed touching their body will collect fur. Choose products with removable, washable components.
Read reviews from other Chow Chow owners.
Generic reviews tell you about the product. Reviews from Chow Chow owners tell you about the product *with your breed*. Filter Amazon reviews by searching "Chow Chow" -- it's the closest thing to breed-specific testing data you'll find.
Our Recommendations
Top 5 Picks for Chow Chow
5 products reviewed
Best Friends by Sheri Calming Donut Bed
Deep-dish round bed with raised edges that mimic being held. Faux fur provides warmth and security for anxious dogs.
Big Barker Orthopedic Dog Bed (Large)
7 inches of American-made therapeutic foam calibrated for heavy dogs. 10-year guarantee against flattening.
K&H Pet Products Heated Dog Bed
Thermostatically controlled heated bed that warms to your dog's body temperature. Uses only 6 watts. MET safety listed.
Casper Dog Bed, Plush Memory Foam, Medium
Casper Dog Bed - featured in our expert reviews.
Furhaven Orthopedic Dog Bed for Large Dogs
Egg crate orthopedic foam base with a plush L-shaped chaise design. Removable, machine-washable cover for easy cleaning.
Health Considerations
Chow Chow dogs are known to be prone to hip dysplasia, eye problems, bloat. When choosing dog beds, keep these health concerns in mind. Joint support is particularly important for this breed, so look for products that provide orthopedic benefits or promote joint health.
Keep Exploring
More Guides for Chow Chow
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best dog bed for a Chow Chow?
The best dog bed for a Chow Chow should account for their medium size (45-70 lbs), low energy level, and dignified, serious, bright temperament. We recommend checking our top picks above, which we have selected based on these breed-specific factors.
How much should I spend on dog beds for my Chow Chow?
Quality dog beds for Chow Chow dogs typically range from $15 to $80+ depending on the specific product. We recommend investing in quality products that will last, especially for your dog's specific needs.
Are there specific dog beds to avoid for Chow Chow dogs?
Avoid generic, one-size-fits-all products that don't account for Chow Chow's specific medium build and low energy needs. Always choose size-appropriate products.
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